Head-to-Head · Switches
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+) vs Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch)
Scored Dimensions
9.3
Value for Money
8.0
8.0
Reliability & Endurance
9.5
8.5
Stability
9.0
5.5
Ease of Assembly
6.5
6.0
Connectivity & Ports
5.5
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+)
The Good
- Offers exceptional value for money, providing high-speed 10GbE and 40GbE connectivity at an accessible price point.
- Delivers rock-solid, reliable performance with many owners reporting continuous uptime without reboots.
- Features a rich and powerful software suite, particularly RouterOS, which offers extensive capabilities for advanced users.
- Includes a redundant power supply, enhancing operational resilience.
The Bad
- Exhibits significant module compatibility issues, often requiring specific or certified transceivers and DAC cables.
- Software, particularly SwOS, has limitations including non-functional fan control and difficulties recognizing certain modules.
- Some units experienced hardware defects, such as a dead power supply or misassembled fan connectors.
- Operating temperatures can run high, with some users observing chassis temperatures above the manufacturer's specified upper limit.
Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch)
The Good
- Exceptional reliability and consistent, long-term performance
- Fanless design ensures silent operation, ideal for various environments
- Seamless integration and centralized management within the UniFi ecosystem
- Solid build quality and high-quality hardware
The Bad
- Limited 1 Gigabit SFP uplinks with no 10 Gigabit SFP+ support
- Management requires a UniFi controller, posing challenges for standalone use or remote troubleshooting
- Can run warm under heavy PoE loads, requiring adequate ventilation
- PoE budget and port count (16 out of 24) may be insufficient for some demanding setups
The MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+) Verdict
This switch offers unparalleled value for its high-speed port density and robust feature set, making it an excellent choice for advanced users willing to navigate its software complexity and potential hardware compatibility quirks.
Read the full MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+) consensus →The Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch) Verdict
This switch is an excellent choice for users deeply embedded in the UniFi ecosystem who prioritize silent operation and robust reliability for their Gigabit networks. Potential buyers should consider its 1 Gigabit uplink limitation and UniFi-centric management before purchase.
Read the full Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch) consensus →
The Bottom Line
Our pick: Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch) · 7.7/10
It's close. The Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch) edges it, 7.7/10 to 7.5/10, on the strength of Reliability & Endurance and Ease of Assembly.
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+)
$533.90
Best price the consensus found
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Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch)
$399.99
Best price the consensus found
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How ORA built this: We read recent reviews, remove suspected bot or incentivized entries, off-topic complaints, and reviews describing the buyer's own setup problems rather than the product, then synthesize the remainder into a single unbiased verdict. Read our full methodology →